Hand Tools: Old standby

Reviewed by:
Scott Gibson, Contributing Editor

This basic block plane, an old standby, is 7" long with a blade set at 21 degrees. The blade can be adjusted for lateral alignment as well as depth. The body of the plane is made from cast iron.

Machining and overall fit and finish are adequate, although not as precise as on more expensive tools. The blade should be sharpened before the plane is used. Other Stanley models have low-angle blades and adjustable throats to reduce the risk of tear-out.

This one was available on-line for $30 or less in September 2004.